In the culinary world, pairing food and drink is an art form that can transform a simple meal into something extraordinary. With its intricate and varied profiles, Whiskey presents a fascinating opportunity in this realm. The right food and whiskey combination can enhance both nuances, creating a harmony of flavors that elevates dining to new heights.
As Alex Kogan, a whiskey aficionado and founder of the World Whiskey Society (WWS), highlights, the interplay of flavors and textures can create a truly memorable dining experience. But it is knowing which spirit to mix with what meal can be tricky.
“You need to have a good grasp of the flavor balance for both the food and the whiskey,” he says. “A peaty Scotch may pair well with different kinds of meat, while a lighter, sweeter bourbon can complement a dessert, like an apple pie.”
World Whiskey Society, in particular, is renowned for its exceptional and diverse range of whiskeys, with new releases launched monthly and, sometimes, weekly. Each of the brand’s spirits is a masterpiece in a bottle, crafted with utmost care to offer a spectrum of flavors that appeal to various palates. WWS’ collection ranges from deep, aged malts to innovative cask-finished bourbons, providing a rich pairing option with a multitude of cuisines.
WWS Reserve Collection 32-Year-Old Aultmore Single Malt
The 32-year-old Aultmore Single Malt, with its inviting vanilla and lemon profile, pairs splendidly with various dishes. The gentle sweetness and creamy notes make it a great companion for creamy desserts like panna cotta or vanilla bean cheesecake.
“For a savory twist, consider pairing it with lightly spiced seafood dishes – the whiskey’s subtle citrus undertones will beautifully complement grilled scallops or a lemon-butter shrimp scampi,” Kogan proposes.
WWS Reserve Collection 32 yo Strathmill Single Malt
The fruity essence of this whiskey, characterized by lemon and pineapple, makes it a refreshing partner for many foods. Citrusy salads, for instance, with oranges or grapefruit, will echo its fruity notes. For a heartier pairing, Kogan suggests trying it with grilled white meats. The whiskey’s vibrant fruitiness will balance the smokiness of some meats, such as grilled chicken or pork tenderloin marinated in a citrus-based sauce.
WWS Reserve Collection 33 yo Macallan Single Malt
This mature and sophisticated whiskey would demand pairings that match its depth. The rich character of the Macallan—a sweet and vanilla-led nose, followed by a buttery creaminess and soft spice on the palate—is perfect with roasted meats, like herb-crusted lamb or beef tenderloin.
It’s also a fantastic match for chocolate desserts. A dark chocolate fondant or a rich torte would complement the whiskey’s layered aroma, creating a luxurious and indulgent experience.
WWS Classic Collection – Bourbon Finished in Tequila Barrels
This unique bourbon, a brand-new World Whiskey Society release, calls for bold and adventurous culinary pairings. The robust character of this spirit can stand up to the spicy and vibrant aroma, making it a solid choice with chicken tacos or a hearty chili con carne.
Alternatively, its nuanced profile can enhance the taste of tangy barbecue dishes – a great option for a summer cookout featuring barbecued ribs or spicy grilled sausages.
Finally, among WWS’ latest releases, one more worth mentioning is the 10-yo KY bourbon in a unicorn-shaped bottle. This fun presentation invites creative pairings, perfect for lively occasions like holiday or birthday parties. Kogan believes this bourbon will complement a number of festive snacks, like gourmet popcorn, charcuterie boards, or even appetizers with bacon or mini quiche.
“Its smooth and versatile profile ensures it pairs well with countless meals. It’s bound to be a hit at any gathering,” Kogan adds.
Without a doubt, whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a grand celebration, each meal presents an opportunity to create something out of this world with WWS. With their exquisite range of offers, Kogan and his team have curated unforgettable whiskey experiences—an endeavor they aim to pursue in 2024.
As Kogan says, “I’d like to encourage everyone to experiment with our whiskeys and find their ideal matches. A whole world of textures and tastes is waiting to be discovered, each just as unique as the next.”
LA Collide 